Destination Debrief: St. Barth's

Image courtesy of Hotel Le Toiny

In addition to its spectacular beaches, part of St. Barth's irresistible allure is its chic European style. A French territory, the island’s architecture, cuisine and culture still reflect the historic French and Swedish influence, while high-end resorts offer posh home bases for island visitors. And there is no shortage of gorgeous beaches. Ribbons of white sand melt into crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating the ideal backdrop for leaving the world behind. 

We’ve gathered our best St. Barth's tips from our Fora Advisors to make your visit unforgettable, complete with where to go to experience the culture and natural beauty of the island, plus the best eats and places to stay.

For more insider tips on sunny escapes, connect with a Fora Advisor to discover St. Barth's and beyond.

Need to know:

Currency: The official currency used on the island of St. Barth's (St. Barthélemy) is the Euro (€), although U.S. Dollars ($) are also accepted.

Language: French (official), English widely spoken

Airport: Gustaf III Airport (SBH) is the small international airport on the island.

Transportation: Rental cars, taxis and shuttle services are available to get around the island. Many visitors also rent scooters or ATVs! If you need a rental, your Fora Advisor can help.

Best time to visit: Peak season is December-April when the weather is ideal. July-October is the low season with a higher risk of rain.

Ideal length of stay: At least 5-7 days is recommended to fully experience the island's lovely beaches, dining and activities, but a long weekend visit is totally an option.

Signature dishes: French Caribbean cuisine like bouillabaisse (seafood stew), accras (fritters), and ti-punch (rum cocktail).

Key French phrases: Although most of the island speaks English, here are few phrases that might come in handy... Bonjour (hello), merci (thank you), s'il vous plaît (please), parlez-vous Anglais? (Do you speak English?)

Dress code: True to its European influence, St. Barth's favors stylish but laid-back fashion. Casual beachwear like sundresses, linen shirts and sandals are common during the day. Upscale casual or resort chic attire for evenings at restaurants and bars.

Where to stay in St. Barth's

Image courtesy of Eden Rock St. Barths

Eden Rock - St Barths, Oetker Collection: Stunning clifftop resort with dreamy beach, plus suites and villas with private pools. Book with Fora to secure Oetker Pearl Partner Perks like $100 resort credit and daily breakfast.

Cheval Blanc St-Barth: Airy luxe property with stunning white sand beach and seaside dining. Book with Fora to lock in a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Rosewood Le Guanahani: Upscale property with exquisite sea views, a spa and charming decor. Fora’s Rosewood Elite Perks include a welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Hotel Christopher Saint-Barth: Contemporary and stylish resort with infinity pool, terrace dining and a spa. Fora’s VIP perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Hôtel Manapany: Eco-friendly beachfront hotel featuring posh rooms and villas with outdoor terraces, plus on-site dining and a spa. Get access to B Signature Diamond Club perks like a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and a welcome amenity whenever available.

Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa: Laid-back luxe resort right on the sea with cheerful decor, a seaside bar and La Mer spa. Fora’s VIP perks include a $125 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Hotel Le Toiny: Fashionable hillside escape with chic rooms, all with private pools. Book with a Fora Advisor to enjoy perks like a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Le Sereno: Family-owned boutique gem with a spa, villas and superb waterfront views. Fora’s VIP perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

What to do in St. Barth's

Images courtesy of Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa

St. Barth's is home to more than 15 white-sand beaches, so you’ll have your choice of sunny spots to explore. A few of our top picks include Saline Beach, a photo-worthy destination where tall dunes give way to magnificent turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling. Lorient Beach is a good spot for both families and surfers, with one side protected by reefs and the other boasting lively waves. 

Because of the island's hilly topography, hidden coves, beaches and swimming holes are abundant. For adventurous beachgoers who don’t mind a trek, Colombier Beach is a sun-soaked treasure at the end of a short hike (you can also hire a boat to reach this beach – your Fora Advisor can help!). Another worthy hike is to Piscines Naturelles Grand Fond, where hikers can cool off in the crystal-blue waters at the base of a cliff.

More than just a sunny destination, St. Barth's also offers a rich cultural history. Discover the island’s European history in Gustavia, the bustling capital city, where historic pastel shops and buildings line the cobblestone streets. Luxury yachts dot the harbor, and there’s plenty of upscale shopping for visitors. To capture stunning views of Gustavia Bay, climb up to Fort Karl, the site of an 1800s Swedish fort. Another beautiful vantage point is Gustavia Lighthouse, on the north end of town.

Where to eat in St. Barth's

Image courtesy of Cheval Blanc St-Barth

Cuisine on the island is a mix of traditions, including Creole, French and Swedish influences. In the capital Gustavia, guests can find a favorite specimen on Shell Beach, then walk to Shellona,  a beachy-chic outdoor restaurant dishing up Mediterranean-inspired plates and colorful tropical drinks. Also in town, Bonito Saint Barth welcomes guests into a divine dining room, decked out with woven lighting, breezy white-and-blue decor and an elevated menu with French and Peruvian flair.  For elegant white-tablecloth evenings, head to L'Isola, where refined dishes celebrate the delights of Italian cooking.

On the northern coast, St. Jean and Lorient have several culinary gems of their own. Nikki Beach is the ideal place to kick back on a beach day bed and savor a cocktail, or dig into the beach club’s fresh seafood menu. Even if you’re not staying at Eden Roc, check out the Sand Bar for a relaxed beachfront venue turning out casual plates, sushi and craft cocktails. For French fare with a Caribbean twist, head to Le Tamarin in Lorient, an inland spot set among lush gardens. 

Hotel Le Toiny on the eastern part of the island has an amazing beach club and restaurant. A popular lunch spot, you can literally dine with your feet in the sand. Expect high-end plates (and prices) of freshly prepared seafood, salads and shareable plates, as well as gorgeous sea views.

Flamands is set on the island’s northwestern tip and is home to a few tasty restaurants, including La Langouste, named after the Caribbean’s version of lobster. This poolside venue is set in a hotel and focuses on upscale seafood dishes. And if you want your toes in the sand while you eat, La Cabane at Cheval Blanc is the place to go, highlighting a casual menu of seafood, salads and small bites.

Ready to plan your Caribbean getaway? Connect with a Fora Advisor to customize the trip of your dreams.